As Term 1 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect with gratitude on what has been a truly wonderful start to the year. We are incredibly blessed with a dedicated team of teachers and support staff who consistently go the extra mile for your tamariki — their care and commitment make all the difference.
This term has been rich with highlights: our senior camp, the celebration of St Teresa’s 70th anniversary, meaningful Lenten activities, and today’s thoughtful Stations of the Cross liturgy. A special mention goes to Riria-Jean, Maddison, Ariella, and Sadie, who were baptised this week — we are proud of them and their whānau as they take this step in faith.
We’re also excited to have a rejuvenated FOSTA team in place, and it’s been heartening to see so many parents and caregivers stepping up to support school sports, trips, and other initiatives. Our small school continues to punch well above its weight — and we couldn’t do it without your support.
We’re delighted to announce that the new junior block is officially open, and it looks fantastic. It’s a fresh, inspiring space for learning, and our junior students are already making it their own.
Looking ahead to Term 2, there’s plenty to look forward to — including Book Week, where we’ll enjoy dressing up, meeting visiting authors, and hosting our annual Booktown Market. A reminder that Photo Day is on the second day back — please check the poster below for details if you’d like to book sibling or studio photos.
Wishing you all a safe and blessed Easter break. We hope it’s filled with rest, joy, and time with loved ones. See you in Term 2!
Ngā manaakitanga,
Lindsey
This week we celebrated the Baptism of Riria-Jean, Maddison, Ariella, and Sadie. It was a special occasion, quietly joyful and full of meaning, as Father Matt led the ceremony and welcomed these children into the Church.
Congratulations to the children and their whānau as they take this important step in their faith journey.
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."
— Luke 18:16
On Thursday a group of 31 year 5-8 students attended the South Wairarapa Softball tournament. We enjoyed amazing weather and a chance to get out and try something new. The students showed amazing positivity, both on and off the pitch. They also spent a lot of the day teaching and supporting the other schools by sharing their softball knowledge. We are so proud of our wonderful St Teresa's kids!
A huge thank you to our incredible helpers on the day; Leah, Sarah, Linda, Koran, Whaea Mills and Louise. These trips would not be possible without your support.
We've seen some wonderful Hands of Christ tasks being shared recently! Charlie got stuck in helping to spread new bark on the senior playground, Gino made breakfast for his brother, Eve baked St Patrick’s Day cupcakes for her class, and William B and Heath kindly donated items to a family affected by a house fire.
Dante has even created a special book to record his tasks, prayers, and reflections — what an inspiring way to capture all the good that's happening through Hands of Christ!
The Easter break is a great time to complete some of the challenges while spending time with friends and loved ones. Don’t forget to share your completed tasks with your teacher to earn a golden token for your house and work towards the special Hands of Christ badge at the end of the year.
A big thank you to all the parents and caregivers who are supporting this meaningful initiative!
Supporting Children Through Change and Loss
Change and loss are a natural part of life, but they can be challenging for children to navigate. Seasons for Growth is a small-group programme designed to help young people understand and respond well to experiences of change, loss, and grief.
This programme is suitable for children who have faced changes such as family separation, the loss of a loved one or pet, moving to a new home, friendship changes, or other significant life events. Through discussions, activities, and peer support, children will develop emotional resilience, coping skills, and a sense of belonging.
Lindsey, our principal, will be running Seasons for Growth in Term 2. If you feel this programme would benefit your child, please contact principal@teresas.school.nz to enrol.
Students may join us from 8am in the quad for our complimentary breakfast club. Please note this is not a general drop off time. Students attending breakfast club must stay in the Hub or Quad. Classrooms are closed to students and whānau until 8.30am to allow our staff time to prepare for the day. If you wish to meet with your child's teacher please text or email them to make an appointment.
Contact Us
Email: office@teresas.school.nz
Website: https://www.teresas.school.nz/
Location: St Teresa's School Bell Street, Featherston, New Zealand
Phone: 06 308 9064
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/St-Teresas-Featherston/100057033717170/